It is difficult to find the appropriate words to describe Mahler’s “Kindertotenlieder”. The title is a great shock (“Songs on the Death of Children”), which is thankfully tempered by the soothing music. Perhaps it is possible to say this: ‘music prevails over abysses in life, and inspiration often has a mind of its own’. Gustav Mahler wrote these songs as his children played happily in the garden – a fact Alma Mahler never let her husband forget. Nevertheless, these songs have become masterpieces of comfort and this evening Jonas Kaufmann will join the ranks of the many great singers who have embraced them. It would undoubtedly have been easier to present an aria evening to elevate the mood of the audience. However, Kaufmann doesn’t rule out anything – this singer never allows himself to be cornered.

Jonas Kaufmann Tenor
Andris Nelsons Conductor
Birmingham Symphony Orchestra

Gustav Mahler
Kindertotenlieder  (26’)
***
Richard Strauss
Orchestral Songs
Jean Sibelius
Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 43  (45’)

Finishing time approx.: 8pm